4202 Alhambra Ave, Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: 925-228-8860
Fax: 925-228-8192
Open All Year
Overview. Because of his love for nature and his efforts to preserve it, John Muir is known as the father of the national park system and one of the founders of the modern conservation movement. His writings convinced government leaders to establish Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, Mt. Rainier, and Sequoia as protected parks. In 1892, Muir co-founded the Sierra Club, a conservation and nature group that is still active today. Muir was born in Scotland in 1838. At age 11, he moved with his family to what was then Wisconsin frontier. As a young man, Muir walked from Indiana to the Gulf of Mexico, and explored such places as Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Nevada, and the Yosemite Valley. His travels inspired him to write magazine articles and books on the wonders of nature, including Travels in Alaska and Our National Parks. In 1880, Muir married Dr. John Strentzel's daughter Louie and moved to Martinez. The house he and Louie lived in from 1880 to 1890 has been demolished. The home we identify as the Muir house was built in 1882 by Dr. Strentzel. Muir and his wife did not move in until 1890, following Dr. Strentzel's death. Profits from the fruit-growing business provided Muir with a comfortable income that allowed him to continue to travel and write at his leisure. He died in 1914 at the age of 76. The 14-room Italianate mansion on the property has been preserved to look as it did while Muir lived there. It is filled with antique furniture and some original pieces. A portrait of Muir, painted by his sister, hangs in the second floor study that Muir called her "scribble den." The house offers exhibits about the Sierra Club and features the "scribble den." Papers still clutter the original oak desk and the floor around it. Back porches and bay windows look out over the orchard and the Martinez adobe, where one of Muir's two daughters lived. What to see and do. Visitors can view a video about Muir's life and philosophy, and take a self-guided tour of the house and estate. Guided tours are also offered daily at 2 PM; special tours are available for groups of 10 or more. A picnic area is offered, and visitors can join special events such as Muir's commemorative birthday celebration. This event features bagpipe music and traditional dancing from Muir's homeland. In December, a Victorian Christmas celebration is held, offering caroling and cookies. Call ahead for information. The site is open from Wednesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM, and is closed Monday and Tuesday. Muir's estate is located near the Mt. Wanda Natural Area. Take Highway 4 to the Alhambra Avenue Exit.
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